Silver’s history and cultural significance are as rich as its shine. From ancient adornment to modern smartphones, this metal has played a heavy hand in advancing society. But where did silver come from, and how did it become such a vital metal? Find out the uses of silver and how it has shaped civilization from ancient to modern day below.
Where Did Silver Come From?
Silver has been recorded and noted throughout centuries, leading many to ask, “Where did silver come from?” The answer takes us back about 5,000 years. The first notable mention of silver occurs in 3,000 BCE near Anatolia, now known as Turkey. Historical discoveries suggest that mining was already functioning at a large scale and exported to neighboring civilizations like Greece and Mesopotamia.
Meanwhile, areas like North America did not show evidence of silver mining until 600-800 AD. However, silver production soared after the Spanish conquests spread through the Americas during the 1400s. By 1800, North and South America accounted for 85% of global silver production.
A Universal Power: Silver as Currency
Nearly from the start, one of the most prominent silver uses was coinage and currency. Greece, Mesopotamia, Sumeria, and other ancient civilizations all show evidence of using silver currency. Mesoamerica also leaned into silver currency, creating coins like the silver Reales in Peru.
While currency was one of the primary uses of silver throughout history, it also served other roles. Silver jewelry has been discovered in cities like Babylon and Sumer. The Americas used silver to create ritual tools and individual ornamentation. No matter the specific silver uses, it was treated as an important precious metal within the community.
The Industrial Revolution: Silver’s New Role
During the Industrial Revolution in the 17th and 1800s, silver uses expanded dramatically. This period saw a dramatic increase in the ability to mine and refine silver. Easier access to the precious metal led to technological advancements in photography, electrical devices, and even water purification practices. Simultaneously, as silver became more useful to industry, many governments also became less reliant on it to back currency values. During this era, 10 – 15% of global silver became devoted to industrial usage.
Modern Day Allure: Silver in Today’s Society
Industries continue to grow and expand the uses of silver even today. Many everyday household items, such as smartphones, TVs, and microwaves, utilize silver. It is also used for advancements in 5G, refrigeration, and medical devices. In fact, the United States is one of the top users of silver in modern society. Explore more ways industries are using silver today.
Aside from pure technological advancement, silver continues to be used as currency and valued as a precious metal. Citizens can use silver as an investment tool if they are looking to explore options outside the traditional stock market. People can also collect and own silver to diversify wealth; investors can purchase high-purity silver bullion as coins or bars. Silver bullion values are closely tied to the global cost of silver and can be attained as collector’s pieces for numismatists or investment pieces for future-minded individuals.
A Resource for All Things Silver: ModernCoinMart
With over 1.7 million tons of silver discovered on the planet, it is no wonder that it has played such a critical role in shaping modern society. Whether you’re looking for more information about silver uses and other precious metals or exploring the world of collecting silver, look no further than ModernCoinMart. With more than a decade of experience and a team of specialists, MCM has an extensive and trustworthy collection of coins and bullion to explore.
